FDNY FF's File Lawsuit: Loud Sirens Are Making Us Deaf

Is going to be interesting to see where this lawsuit ends up going. On one hand I understand the position of those filing the lawsuit but on the other hand it's the sound for something that's required for safety reasons. It seems like it's just something has become an issue because of our society that is now ready to file a lawsuit for anything to make money!
 
In other situations with loud noises there are ear coverings for hearing protection.Could something like that be adapted for FDNY use in the apparatus?Just wondering out loud.
 
wfd444 said:
In other situations with loud noises there are ear coverings for hearing protection.Could something like that be adapted for FDNY use in the apparatus?Just wondering out loud.
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I'm not sure about FDNY but many departments require their firefighters to wear headsets. These serve 2 purposes, they help greatly reduce the background noises of engines, sirens etc., they also allow the firefighters to hear the ongoing communications regarding the incident they are responding to. I'm sure these are quite helpful in reducing hearing exposure to loud noises but of course they were not in use when much of the exposure these firefighters are suing over happened.

Also, the type of siren used by FDNY has changed greatly over the years. The federal QE2 used to be the main siren, it's a mechanical time siren which is much louder than what they use today and also a lot less directional. Today FDNY uses electronic QE2 sirens which are supposed to sound the same and provide as much help clearing traffic (both of these points are refuted by many), the electronic sirens have their sound projected through speakers which focus the sound much more away from the apparatus which I'm sure helps reduce the sound within the cabs.
 
Hearing loss is no joke. It's 21st century and first responders should receive all the protection equipment they need, including hearing protection.
 
I was in North Bergen today and noticed that all members aboard Truck 5 were wearing hearing protection.
 
I know it was small scale and probably not relevant but I had hearing protection and intercom headsets in our two engines and truck companies. If your butt was in the seat, the headset was on your head.
 
CFDMarshal said:
I know it was small scale and probably not relevant but I had hearing protection and intercom headsets in our two engines and truck companies. If your butt was in the seat, the headset was on your head.
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That's pretty common these days in most departments. I'm not sure if FDNY has them and enforces their use or not.
 
FDNY does not have the radio headsets ...there (in recent times) have been "some" plastic earmuff type ear protectors but this limits communication between the Off & FFs & FFs to FFs....not practical....i think those involved in the suit are from an era where there was no AC so windows were open & not all riding positions were enclosed also driving a Rig w/an enclosed cab leaving the window open to hear other approaching Emergency vehicles was advised .
 
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2015/12/21/firefighters-sue-siren-maker-over-their-hearing-loss.html?intcmp=hplnws
 
Lawsuit for hearing loss from a siren.  We didn't know ? GTFO !  I'd be embarrassed to say this in a court of law.  On record.  I couldn't show my face in public.  5 cent ear plugs have been around 50 years or basically forever now.  I'm actually speechless that fireman are playing the "victim" card here.  Never thought I'd see the day.
 
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